Oxford was a one-of-a-kind academic and social experience. August 24, 2024

By (Political Science, Wellesley College) - abroad from 09/03/2023 to 12/02/2023 with

Worcester College, University of Oxford - Visiting Students Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about different international cultures and how Americans are perceived abroad. I also learned how to navigate foreign academics and social life independently.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The coursework in my PPE tutorials was rigorous and fast-paced. It wasn't easy, but I learned how to write quickly and substantively.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I had a lot of opportunities to meet students from other colleges and make friends outside of my cohort!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Oxford felt very safe, especially inside college grounds.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Studying abroad in general is fairly expensive, especially if you want to travel around the UK/Europe during term. Social life in Oxford can also become pricey (going out for events, buying college stash, attending formals, etc.). Many Oxford societies/clubs have a base joiners' fee to become a full member, so some students may be limited by their financial capabilities.

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Use the app Too Good to Go to try new foods instead of eating out!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Social opportunities
  • Travel
  • Academic rigor
* What could be improved?
  • Immersion with other Oxford students
  • Maintaining connections with home institution
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Studying abroad is an opportunity to experience attending another university just as much as experiencing another culture.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.